Hybrid Bike Get Suspension Or Not ?

[mphJ]

Hi all

I’m buying a new bike soon and getting a hybrid , the bike i want I have the choice between one with front suspension or the equivalent model without suspension , what do you guys prefer ?

It will be used for commuting to work on the roads mainly and the occasional ride in my free time in Richmond park on the gravel trails, will a non suspension one be ok for this ?

My old mountain bike that just got nicked I had the suspension off or locked out all the time so im pretty sure no suspension is the right one for me but just wanted to get some opinions before making a decision

Anyone else here have one without suspension that goes on the gravel trail in Richmond park or similar ? Seem ok ?

I did briefly road test the one I want with no suspension but only went local on the road , didn’t have the chance to go in the park etc

Many Thanks

[lufbramatt]

Don’t bother imo

Just adds weight. Not needed for something that will only see light off-road use unless you have issues with your wrists etc where it may be beneficial.

It’s another thing to wear out and maintain.

I do a lot of xc riding on a rigid bike, if you have good position on the bike your arms and legs do a good job of absorbing shocks and I prefer the way the bike doesn’t dive under braking with a rigid fork.

[loskie]

No suspension but if on rougher gravel roads fit higher volume tyres if possible. Very few gravel bikes have suspension for a very good reason. Enjoy the new bike.

[dontlookdown]

loskie said:

No suspension but if on rougher gravel roads fit higher volume tyres if possible. Very few gravel bikes have suspension for a very good reason. Enjoy the new bike.

This. Suspension on a hybrid is extra weight and complexity for no real advantage. Fit some gravel type tyres if there is clearance for them, or wider regular tyres if not, and experiment with lower tyre pressures esp at the front.

[272BHP]

I ride the same area as you and moving up to 700x40 gravel tyres was a revelation in terms of ride quality and grip.

You won't need front suspension in Richmond Park.

[mphJ]

Cool thanks all

[TGCOTF-dewey]

You could also consider something like a one-up carbon bar. It has designed in vertical compliance to reduce trail buzz. 130 quid so a LOT cheaper than some forks.